First, some general information and other people's comments:

You'll find reviews and comments about several of the major tax preparation software products at TaxMama's Tax Pro's Software Forum (this is a slow link, so wait)

You'll always find a link to it at the Tax Pro page

You'll find a pretty complete list of tax software tools here: http://taxsites.com/software.html

The things I feel are important for my tax library?

$21.00	The annual IRS disc
$129.00	CFS Tax Tools
$89.00	CFS After the fact payroll system
$89.00	CFS W2/1099 system
or	You might replace the last two choices with:
$100.00	Saber W2/1099 (includes free e-file, how nice!)
$41.50	1040 QuickFinder
$41.50	Small Business Quickfinder® Handbook
$279.95	QuickBooks for Bookkeeping
$52.00	CCH's Master Tax Guide
$52.00	CCH's California Guide (They'll have your state)

And then, there's the tax prep software. (The one listed here is just the least expensive option. Naturally. for more complexity, there are other very popular products. We're just trying to arrive at the least expensive office configuation.)

$500.00	One of your least expensive options is ATX's Saber 1040Plus (It includes unlimited states) I have heard really good things and some bad things about them.

Note: All the software packages have cheaper upgrade pricing for the second year.

You noticed that I did not list a research disc or library. That's because, with the material available online, I can research the code and regulations via the Internet. You will find the links you need most often, here, in the right hand column.

So, with shipping and handling, expect to spend a little under $1500 for your minimum annual tax office tax updates and software.

I hope this helps you get your first office started....or to fill in the holes in your present office.

Eva Rosenberg, MBA EA
Your TaxMama is watching...out for you.